Sexually active teens and young adults frequently use alcohol and drugs before sex and are less likely to protect themselves from pregnancy and disease while under the influence, a new nationwide survey shows.

The survey by the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation of Menlo Park found that about one-quarter of teens say they've had unprotected sex because of drugs and alcohol. About half of the 15- to 24-year-olds who participated say they think their peers mix sex, drugs and alcohol "a lot."

Experts say the study underscores the need for parents and schools to talk with teenagers about the dangers of mixing alcohol, drugs and sex, and for stepped up public education campaigns.

"The results show clearly that mixing drinking, drugs and sex are at least as dangerous as drinking and driving for teens, because of the dangers of AIDS,

Califano, former secretary of Health, Education and Welfare during the Carter administration, is now president of the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University in New York. A panel of experts will discuss the results at a conference today at Columbia.

At a time when the Bush administration is promoting abstainance-only sex education in the schools, Califano said it was imperative for educators and parents to address the influence alcohol and drugs had on teens' decisions.

Matt James, senior vice president at the Kaiser Family Foundation, said that the survey results might seem obvious. Nonetheless, he said, "It's important to put the numbers to it and educate counselors, teachers, parents and teenagers about the dangers of mixing drugs, alcohol and unprotected sex. The consequences can be quite dire."

James ' group will be working with MTV, Univision and BET to increase public service announcements addressing the dangers of mixing alcohol, drugs and sex.

The survey was conducted on a random sample of 988 15- to 24-year-olds between November and January. Among the study's other findings:

-- Nearly two-thirds of teens say they believe their peers don't use condoms while under the influence.

-- When asked about their own decisions about sex, 43 percent say they are concerned they might do more sexually while using drugs or alcohol.

-- About one in 5, or 21 percent, say it is not a big deal if their peers decide to have sex while under the influence.

The results came as little surprise to some parents, teens and counselors.

"Kids, when they're 17, 18 aren't thinking about their future," said Nancy, 23, of Solano County, who asked that her last name not be used. "When you're out clubbing and doing your thing, drinking and drugs cause you to do more than you would normally do.

"I'd say most importantly: Carry a condom in your purse, and if you're going to have sex, use it."

Parent Emily Robles of San Francisco says the message she wants to get across to her children is that they don't have to succumb to peer pressure.

"If the subject comes up," Robles said, "I'd tell them you can be friends with people who use drugs or drink and have sex, but you don't have to copy their behavior."

Others say talking helps.

"I'd try and make sure I'm talking with my teenager," said parent Debbie Katz of Orinda. "Know where they are. Take the opportunity when teens are ready to talk. Sit and listen, get to know their friends, and don't be naive. Be aware, it happens."

"I think kids are savvy," added Katz, a therapist, many of whose clients are teenagers. "Letting them know what addiction is about -- having them be informed -- helps."

SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND RISKY SEXUAL BEHAVIOR
-- Thinking about people your age, how often do you think they drink or use
drugs before having sex?
-- How concerned are you personally that you might do Ðmore sexually than
you had planned because you are drinking or using drugs?
.
A lot 50%
Sometimes 38%
Just occasionally 10%
Don't know/ refused 1%
Never 1%
.
Somewhat concerned 22%
Not too concerned 19%
Not at all concerned 37%
Very concerned 21%
Don't know/ refused 1%
.
Based on a national random sample of 998 adolescents and young adults (15
to 24 years old) between Nov. 13 and Jan. 20
.
Source: Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation
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